Discover the National Forests in Florida

The National Forests in Florida includes three forests - the Apalachicola, Osceola and the Ocala. Combined, National Forest lands cover more than 1.2 million acres in North and Central Florida. The National Forests in Florida also manage the 1,400-mile Florida National Scenic Trail, one of eight National Scenic Trails in the United States.

A variety of recreation experiences are possible on these diverse and unique forests and trails.

The National Forests in Florida along with the US Forest Service welcomes your responsible usership. We encourage you to enjoy all that these National Forests have to offer.

The Ocala National Forest lies between the Ocklawaha and St. Johns Rivers in central Florida. It has acreage in Putnam, Lake     and Marion Counties.  Interstate 75 parallels the forest on the west, while Interstates 95 and 4 are accessible on the east side.

The Osceola National Forest is located 12 miles east of Lake City on U.S. Hwy 90 and is located within Columbia and Baker Counties. The Forest can be accessed from many different points, however the most direct route to our district office if you are traveling via I-10 is to exit at 441 (not 41) head south for 4 miles, go east on US 90 and travel 13 miles and our office will be on your right; directions to our District office via I-75 is to exit at US 90 head east for 20 miles and we will be on your right.

The Apalachicola National Forest is located within 6 watersheds: Apalachicola River, New River, Ochlockonee, Sopchoppy, Lost Creek and Wakulla River. These rivers and streams provide a steady freshwater flow to productive coastal bays or estuaries. Apalachicola Bay and Ochlockonee Bay are known for shellfish & other commercial seafood. The Apalachicola National Forest is about 4 miles southwest of Tallahassee.